This article provides an overview of black beans, what they taste like, their availability, alternative names, and of course what other ingredients make black bean substitutes.
What are Black Beans?
Black beans are a type of small, shiny common bean that is especially popular throughout Latin American cuisines, as well as in Cajun and Creole cuisine of south Louisiana, USA. Black beans are native to the Americas but are now cultivated throughout the world. Black beans are especially popular in Brazil, where they are used in the national dish Feijoada.
What do Black Beans taste like?
Black beans have a dense and meaty texture and flavor, which makes it a great alternative to meat in vegetarian dishes. Black beans do not have an overwhelming flavor, which makes them perfect for various different dishes, they also absorb the salt and spices of the foods they are cooked with.
Is Black Beans readily available in Supermarkets?
Black beans should be readily available in supermarkets, where they are often found among the other beans, in the canned goods section.
What are some alternative names for Black Beans?
Black beans are more commonly referred to as black turtle beans, after their hard outer shell.
What is a good substitute for Black Beans in recipes?
Luckily, there are a number of great substitutes for black beans. These include alternatives such as:
- Black beans can be easily substituted for pinto beans, kidney beans, chickpeas, lentils or great northern beans.
What cuisines are Black Beans used in?
Black beans, also known as black turtle beans, are a popular ingredient in various cuisines around the world. They are a type of legume that is high in protein, fiber, and other nutrients. Here are some cuisines where black beans are commonly used:
Latin American Cuisine
Black beans are a staple ingredient in Latin American cuisine, particularly in Mexican, Cuban, and Brazilian dishes. They are used to make dishes such as black bean soup, frijoles negros, and feijoada. They are also used in burritos, tacos, and enchiladas.
Caribbean Cuisine
Black beans are also commonly used in Caribbean cuisine, where they are used to make dishes such as rice and beans, black bean soup, and black bean stews. They are often paired with plantains and other tropical ingredients.
American Cuisine
Black beans are used in American cuisine to make dishes such as black bean burgers, black bean chili, and black bean salads. They are also used as a filling for quesadillas and tacos.
Chinese Cuisine
In Chinese cuisine, black beans are used to make a fermented black bean sauce that is used as a seasoning for various dishes such as stir-fries and steamed fish. The sauce is made by fermenting black beans with salt and other seasonings.
African Cuisine
Black beans are used in some African cuisines, particularly in West Africa. They are used to make dishes such as black-eyed pea soup, black bean stews, and black-eyed pea fritters.
Indian Cuisine
Black beans are not commonly used in traditional Indian cuisine, but they are sometimes used as a substitute for other beans in dishes such as rajma, which is a red kidney bean curry.